'I hope it’s a girl!' Duke of Sussex reveals he is hoping for a baby girl

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expecting their first child next year - Getty Images AsiaPac

The Duke of Sussex has shared his hope that his first baby will be a girl, after being congratulated by a well wisher at the Invictus Games.

The father-to-be, who attended the road cycling event alone while the pregnant Duchess rested, laughed as a fan shouted "I hope it’s a girl” as he walked past, replying: “So do I!”

It is the first time the Duke has spoken about a preference for the sex of the baby, due in the spring.

Last week, the day after news of Baby Sussex was announced, he had amused a small audience during a speech when he appeared to falter over the word "baby" as he avoided saying "son" or "daughter".

"We also genuinely couldn’t think of a better place to announce the upcoming baby," he said, adding: "Whether it’s a boy or a girl.”

The couple, who are currently on their first Royal tour in the South Pacific, said they could not think of a better place to announce the newsCredit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images AsiaPac

In an interview with the Australian Invictus Games host broadcaster yesterday, the Duke said he was feeling "fantastic" about becoming a father, adding "new responsibilities and a new third of our lives".

Growing up with one older brother, Prince William, the Duke perhaps gave an insight into his own hopes for a family when, after Kate Middleton married into the royal family, he called her the "big sister I never had".

Speaking at the Invictus Games opening ceremony on Saturday night, the Duke told a largely Australian audience: " I have been so proud to be able to introduce my wife to you and we have been so happy to be able to celebrate the personal joy of our newest addition with you all."